virtuaalioperaattorin

Virtuaalioperaattori, also known as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) in English, is a telecommunications company that does not own its own wireless network infrastructure. Instead, it leases network capacity from established mobile network operators (MNOs). This allows virtual operators to offer mobile services such as voice calls, text messages, and data access to customers without the significant capital investment required to build and maintain a physical network.

Virtual operators typically focus on specific market segments or offer unique service packages. They can differentiate themselves through pricing strategies, customer service, niche market targeting (e.g., specific ethnic groups, budget-conscious consumers, or business users), or innovative service bundles. By leveraging the infrastructure of an MNO, they can achieve lower operating costs and bring services to market more quickly.

The business model involves a wholesale agreement where the virtual operator purchases network access from an MNO at a negotiated rate and then resells it to end-users at retail prices. This relationship can vary, with some virtual operators having very close partnerships with their host MNOs, while others operate with more independence. The rise of virtual operators has increased competition in the mobile market, often leading to more choices and competitive pricing for consumers.